Under the hammer: former Natwest Bank in Uppermill to finally be sold at auction

THE future of Saddleworth’s last ever bank will be decided later this month.

The former bank on Uppermill High Street

The former NatWest Bank on Uppermill High Street is up for auction on Tuesday, October 17.

It is listed as the opening lot of 63 at the Pugh Auction at the AJ Bell Stadium, Salford starting at 12 noon with a bottom guide price of £250,000.

The three storey building was previously put up for sale in September but was then withdrawn to allow internal refurbishment work and isolation of the ATM cash machine.

All work has now been completed and the new ATM has been returned to service.

NatWest have pledged to retain the ATM for a minimum five years and will pay £2,000 per annum to the future new owner.

However, there has been criticism of the conditions attached to the sale with NatWest refusing to allow the possibility of another bank or building society to make a bid for the premises.

The property will be sold subject to restrictions preventing the following uses:
• Businesses involved with money lending
• Pawnbrokers/adult sex shops
• Bookmakers or any other gambling business or outlet
• Banks/ Building Societies
• A4 users (ie bars/public houses)
• The sale of firearms
• The sale of any paraphernalia associated with illegal drugs

It remains to be seen if the building could be converted into a restaurant or café.

The building has been empty since the last customer was served on Tuesday, June 27.